Pregnancy is one of the best experiences a woman may have. It is also an experience that leaves an indelible mark on a woman’s life. She is forever changed in her heart, and may also be forever changed on a physical level. Some women address these changes with a Mommy Makeover, a combination of procedures that give Mom a bit of a do-over with her body. Sometimes, breast lifting or augmentation and a tummy tuck are more than what a woman needs. In cases where the primary concern is stretch marks, we may not even need surgery to address the issue.

Stretch marks are a sign of excessive stretching. While pregnancy is a common cause of stretch marks, these silvery lines may also develop during a rapid growth spurt or as a result of obesity. As such, there are several areas of the body where stretch marks may develop. Aside from the stomach, common areas affected include the arms, back, and thighs.

No Big Deal?

The fact that there are no medical implications associated with stretch marks means very little to the woman who doesn’t feel confident wearing a bathing suit, or even shorts or a tank top. This also goes for any man who has developed stretch marks in a visible place. The fact that there are no health risks doesn’t mean that stretch marks are no big deal. You know what also isn’t a big deal? Laser stretch mark treatment!

Fractional CO2 for Stretch Marks

CO2 laser resurfacing is not a hot new treatment; it has been around for quite some time. The innovation that may peak your interest is the development of fractionated laser beams. Fractional CO2 resurfacing uses the same basic laser technology. However, it sends laser energy into the skin in pinpoints. This increases the conservativeness of treatment and minimizes downtime without diminishing results.

The way that fractional CO2 resurfacing works are by ablating a small fraction of skin. To ablate means to vaporize, essentially. In between the pinpoints of “wounding” are areas of healthy skin that has been left untouched. The process excites all supportive cells beneath the surface. Healthy new cells grow to replace the old, and even cells in the untouched areas produce more collagen to heal surrounding tissue. After treatment, the skin may appear red and slightly crusty or flaky for 3 to 7 days.

Do you have stretch marks you’d like to part ways with? Call our Campbell office to learn more about fractional CO2 laser resurfacing.

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